Annual vaccination is the most important measure to prevent influenza and its complications. It is recommended for all people aged 6 months and over (unless contraindicated).

We have both private and public-funded vaccines available. Due to high demand, call to check the availability by calling us. If you are not eligible for the public-funded vaccine, then private flu shots are available for $20 to purchase at the medical centre.

To ensure the safety of our patients and staff, we ask you not to book your appointment if you have a fever, sore throat, cough and/or running nose. 

Eligibility for FREE influenza vaccines through the NIP

In 2023, influenza vaccines funded through the NIP are available to the following groups. This is due to their increased risk of complications from influenza.  So these flu shots are free for the following group:

  • people aged six months to less than five years
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged  six months and older
  • pregnant women (at any stage of pregnancy)
  • people aged 65 years and older
  • people aged six months and older with medical conditions putting them at increased risk of severe influenza and its complications:
    • cardiac disease
    • chronic respiratory conditions
    • chronic neurological conditions
    • immunocompromising conditions
    • diabetes and other metabolic disorders
    • renal disease
    • hematological disorders
    • children aged six months to 10 years on long-term aspirin therapy.

Children under nine years of receiving their influenza vaccination for the first time require two doses of vaccine, spaced by a minimum of one month.

A few things to remember after your FLU immunization

  1. You will need to wait at the clinic for 15 minutes after your vaccination.  This is to ensure that you can get all the help you need if you develop any severe or rare allergic reaction to the vaccine.
  2. You may feel lethargic, tired or develop a fever after your immunization.  This is a very common reaction.  Please check with your doctor/pharmacist to see if paracetamol can help to alleviate the symptoms.
  3. It can take up to 2 weeks to develop immunity against influenza. You may still catch influenza before or after your immunization.
  4. The Flu vaccine only helps to protect against the FLU virus and does not confer any protection against other common cold illnesses.